November 2012 - Indian Airforce

Editorial
he onset of winter is a welcome time, as one gladly trades the swelter for the sweater! However,
winter also brings with it its associated weather phenomena that are so very important for
Taircrew to watch out for, be it poor visibility or Western Disturbances. But there is another
group of professionals who need to maintain an equally vigilant eye for safety in the skies. And so we
focus on the vital bonding between aviators and air traffic controllers, highlighting several cases
where prompt action saved the day.
'History Repeats Itself ' is an account of mistaken identity of airfields in close proximity. Such
errors of judgement have been made by both, service as well as civil aircraft, despite a plethora of
sophisticated navigation equipment on board. This is not the first such example and may not be the
last. Aircrew and controllers both need to be extra cautious when operating in such conditions. 'T-20
in a Controller's Life' is another collection of anecdotes which prove that the alertness and quick
response required of an air traffic controller are as demanding and dynamic as a player in a T-20
thriller! 'An Air Incident that Kick-Started Us' is a wonderful account that stresses the intense coordination
required between different agencies involved in the launch and recovery of aircraft,
particularly when today's profiles and area of operations span large durations and distances from
base.
'Avian Activity Risk Assessment and Prioritisation' emphasises the need to be specific to the
peculiarities of each base when planning for effective bird control and avoidance. 'Where Eagles
Dare' is a bird's perspective of its struggle for existence in its natural domain due to the intrusion of
humans; a reminder that it is us who have to learn to co-exist!
'Aur Kitna Time Lagega?' is a situation perhaps encountered many a time when impatience
and interference actually end up delaying task accomplishment. 'Oops They Forgot the Toggle Pin' is
a reminder for being forthright to ensure correct and timely analysis of any unusual occurrence, while
'I am a Good Supervisor' succinctly spells out what a supervisor should do to ensure safe and efficient
operations.
The importance of tool discipline and a comprehensive quiz on ‘matters aviation’ are good
fillers for all of us to test our knowledge at leisure.
Happy Landings.
(S Shrinivas)
Group Captain